Places to Go in Michigan

Dubbed the “Great Lake State,” Michigan borders four of the five Great Lakes, making it a perfect destination for the end of summer. Aside from strolling along the shorelines of Michigan’s 11,000-plus inland lakes, visitors can enjoy art festivals, historic monuments, and college sporting events while traveling through the state’s most popular cities.For a Michigan vacation that balances charming spots along the water with lively cultural hubs, take a look at this list of places to go in Michigan from The Parking Spot. Ann ArborHome to the first state-established university in the country, Ann Arbor touts world-class education as well as a deep appreciation for culture and the arts. With nearly 300 restaurants within a 20-mile radius of Ann Arbor, visitors can taste a range of cuisines from locally-picked cherry dishes to Italian and Indian fare. Art enthusiasts can attend one of the city’s many summer street festivals that highlight local artists and musicians. Beginning in early September, sports fanatics can head to the “Big House” to cheer on the University of Michigan Wolverines.DetroitDetroit is making a comeback with a revitalized downtown area boasting plenty of new restaurants, hotels, and summer events for families to enjoy. Known as the car capital of the world, Detroit celebrates the auto industry year-round. On August 15, visit the Woodward Dream Cruise, an auto appreciation festival replete with parades and live music. If you’re in town over Labor Day weekend, don’t miss the annual Detroit International Jazz Festival, featuring over 100 premier acts.Grand RapidsNamed the top US travel destination in 2014 by Lonely Planet, Grand Rapids is packed with attractions from museums and theaters to beaches and breweries. Visitors can sip suds at more than 25 craft breweries scattered throughout the city, or visit any of the numerous festivals and beer tours featuring local brews and bites. When you’ve had your fill, journey further afield to a nearby beach or golf course. For a more educational trip, visit one of the five museums in the downtown area or the historic burial site of 38th US president Gerald R. Ford.Traverse CityFor a smaller beach town experience, visit Traverse City, named one of the Best Summer Trips by National Geographic in 2012. The area traces 180 miles of Lake Michigan’s shoreline, providing endless opportunities for watersports, boating, and enjoying the golden sand. Don’t miss a trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for a unique blend of sandy dunes and trail-ridden forests. Climb 27 miles along the paved Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail to witness the parks breathtaking vistas.Mackinac IslandMackinac Island is a historic enclave that shines in the summer months. More than 80% of the island is set aside as a state park, complete with several museums and outdoor attractions. Travel back in time to the American Revolution at Fort Mackinac. Explore 14 original buildings and watch a historic reenactment in which soldiers march and demonstrate how to fire their rifles. Go for a bike ride along the 8-mile paved path known as Lake Shore Boulevard that circumnavigates the island. There are no cars allowed on the island, so you’ll have the path to yourself.Check out these places to go in Michigan and more during your summer trip. Where do you want to go on your Michigan vacation?